How to make cats love drinking water: 5 tips to increase the animal's water drinking rate

Want to know how to get your cat to love drinking water ? Master these five tips to increase your cat's water intake , boosting their health and preventing urinary and kidney diseases.

1. Provide multiple refreshing drinking water stations

Cats are naturally alert and are often reluctant to drink more if there are too few drinking water points or the environment is not appropriate.

  • Set up 3-5 drinking water points and distribute them in places where your cat moves most frequently (next to the sleeping mat, by the window, in the play area, etc.).
  • Use a flat-bottomed shallow bowl or a wide-mouthed porcelain or glass bowl to avoid discomfort caused by the whiskers touching the edge of the bowl.
  • Maintain hygiene by changing the water daily and cleaning the water bowl thoroughly once a week.

2. Incorporate high-water content wet food

Wet food can contain up to 70–80% water and is the most direct and delicious source of hydration.

  • One high-water content wet food per day is recommended : canned or packaged wet food to quickly increase the total amount of water intake.
  • Start gradually: Mix dry feed with wet food in the early stages and gradually increase the proportion of wet food.
  • For cats with urinary tract or kidney problems, doctors often recommend increasing their wet food intake.

3. Introducing mobile drinking water devices

Many cats prefer running water because it is cleaner and feels fresher.

  • Choose the recommended series of cat water dispensers that provide silent filtering circulation.
  • Replace the filter element and clean the water pump regularly to ensure water quality and flow.
  • Create a sense of flow by making a small DIY faucet drip or placing a shallow dish next to the bathtub.

4. Tips on seasoning and ice cubes

Moderate flavor can motivate cats to drink water.

  • Add a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth or tuna-flavored water to the water to stimulate interest.
  • Make the broth into ice cubes and add them to the bowl of water to combine the dual inducements of coolness and flavor.
  • Freeze canned soup into ice blocks for summer fun and hydration.

5. Make drinking water fun and observe

Guide cats to drink water spontaneously through interactive games.

  • Change the shape and placement of water bowls to stimulate curiosity.
  • Add a float toy to a shallow dish and let your cat play with it while licking the water.
  • Monitor your cat's water intake regularly. Adult cats need about 44–66 ml/kg per day. If you find that your cat is drinking abnormally , please consult a veterinarian immediately.
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